9 April 2026
City of Palmerston has released its draft 2026–27 Municipal Plan, Long-Term Financial Plan and Fees and Charges for public feedback. Developed alongside Council’s annual budget, the Municipal Plan outlines what the year ahead will look like including services, programs and projects that will be delivered to achieve Palmerston’s vision as ‘A Place for People’.
In response to ongoing cost of living pressures, Council has prioritised a balanced budget that maintains essential services valued by the community with no major changes to existing service levels.
Rates for 2026 – 27
- 4.9% rate increase to the minimum rate for the majority of home owners ($71.50)
- 5.9% increase to the minimum rate for Commercial and Industrial properties ($87.45)
- Waste charges will increase by $19.00 per household
Our year ahead includes
- Free parking and free entry to SWELL
- $9.42 million total capital works spend PLUS $271,474 for maintaining our pathways and laneways and over $2 million on roads
- Parks and playgrounds upgrades plus 500 new trees planted
- Stage 3 design for Zuccoli Community Hub
- Modern makeover to the Library
- Deliver a Masterplan for Marlow Lagoon
The draft 2026-27 Municipal Plan can be viewed online, at Civic Plaza, City of Palmerston Library or the Palmerston Recreation Centre.
Community members are encouraged to join the conversation from 8 April to 13 May 2026, either via our website, phone, email or in person.
Quote attributed to Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell
“Council recognise that rising costs of living continue to place pressure on households and our operational expenses. While we strive to deliver a balanced budget that meets community expectations in services and affordability, we understand that factors beyond Council’s control are impacting everyone. I am pleased to continue focusing on building a city where families flourish and where we continue prioritise services, programs and facilities the public value. This includes further development on the Zuccoli Community hub, a makeover for the library, free entry to SWELL and free parking in the CBD.
Our community is at the centre of all we do, and I encourage the community to read Council’s draft Municipal Plan and join the conversation to ensure we continue to meet the needs and expectations of the community now and into the future.”